A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Grand Canyon National Park vs. Las Vegas for Food, Resorts, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and gorgeous national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a entertaining, sexy, and glamourous entertainment capital. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Las Vegas. Although Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas are both popular with visitors, Las Vegas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Las Vegas is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Canyon National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is popular for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Las Vegas is popular for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. It is also home to The Strip.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Las Vegas and Grand Canyon National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Las Vegas. Just wander along the Strip and pop in to any of the hotels to see what makes this city unique. There are many replicas of iconic landmarks around the world including the Venetian canals and the Eiffel Tower. You can also check out the Mob Museum, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the Neon Museum.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is renowned for theatre. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

Las Vegas is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Las Vegas is renowned for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Las Vegas, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Canyon National Park. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Las Vegas is renowned for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Las Vegas is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Las Vegas is renowned for live music. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Las Vegas is known as a music capital around the world. There are a number of long running shows as well as frequent musicians that pass through. There are also free live concerts and music festivals throughout the year.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Las Vegas is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Las Vegas for its luxury resorts. Along the strip you'll find world class resorts with casinos, shops, theaters, and all kinds of entertainment venues. Many resorts have a detailed décor that immerses you in an ambiance that unique from the world outside. Top rated resorts include the Bellagio, the Wynn, and Park MGM.

With a selection of resorts, Grand Canyon National Park makes a nice vacation spot. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

Grand Canyon National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular spot for hiking. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is renowned for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Las Vegas. The city's shopping scene combines high end brands with a style that is uniquely Las Vegas. Many hotels have their own malls or shopping areas where you can buy designer names or visit flagship stores.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Grand Canyon National Park is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

Grand Canyon National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Las Vegas is not always a place people visit with their families. The city is more known for its adult entertainment options than as a family-friendly destination, but there are good kid-friendly activities around town including kid-oriented shows, the Fun Dungeon in the Excalibur, and thrilling rides that are great for all ages.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas both terrific destinations for a couple.

Grand Canyon National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Las Vegas makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city has become a mecca for weddings - whether impromptu or luxuriously planned out. With it's glamourous resorts and wide variety of entertainment options, couples can enjoy a fun-filled visit here.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Canyon National Park is very popular for backpackers. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Canyon National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Las Vegas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most visitors are not backpackers, but for those who want to experience the hype while sticking to a budget, there are a handful of hostels around town.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas.

Public transit is mostly limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Public transit is generally limited in Las Vegas. Many visitors use the Monorail to get around the Strip and the touristy areas. There's also a bus system that travels throughout the city.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas are good when it comes to walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is somewhat walkable. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

Las Vegas is a somewhat walkable place. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.

For even more information, also check out Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Grand Canyon National Park?

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas?

Both Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Las Vegas than in Grand Canyon National Park. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

Families should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than Las Vegas. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Grand Canyon National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Las Vegas than Grand Canyon National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Las Vegas that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas?

You'll find around the national park of Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Canyon National Park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Las Vegas has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas?

You'll find around the breathtaking destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Each neighborhood in Las Vegas has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the striking national park of Grand Canyon National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Las Vegas has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This entertainment capital offers something for everyone.

A week in Grand Canyon National Park or Las Vegas?

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Each neighborhood in Las Vegas has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Grand Canyon National Park and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas is more expensive. And not only is Grand Canyon National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Grand Canyon National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Grand Canyon National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Las Vegas would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Las Vegas than you might in Grand Canyon National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Grand Canyon National Park Expensive? and Is Las Vegas Expensive?.